Matrix Science Pharma (MSP)

ABSTRACT

Medicinal plants are an important source of therapeutic compounds, but their safety profiles require
thorough scientific evaluation. Anthocleista grandiflora, commonly used in African traditional medicine, is
reputed for diverse medicinal applications, yet little is known about its toxicological effects. This study
investigated the sub-chronic influence of its methanol leaf extract on reproductive and haematological
parameters in male Wistar rats. Acute toxicity was assessed using the modified Lorke’s method, while sub-
chronic evaluation involved daily oral administration of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg body weight for 28 days.
At the end of the treatment period, blood, vas deferens, and testes were collected for hematological profiling,
serum testosterone assays, semen analysis, and histopathological examination. The acute toxicity test
revealed no mortality, with the median lethal dose (LD50) estimated at greater than 5000 mg/kg, suggesting
a broad safety margin. Sub-chronic administration did not produce significant alterations (P > 0.05) in serum
testosterone concentration, sperm count, sperm motility, or testicular weight when compared with controls.
However, a mild but non-significant improvement in sperm morphology was observed. Hematological values
remained within normal physiological limits, indicating no risk of anemia, immunosuppression, or
coagulation impairment at the tested doses. These findings suggest that methanol leaf extract of A. grandiflora
is relatively safe at sub-chronic doses and does not exert adverse effects on male reproductive function or
hematological integrity. Nonetheless, extended studies are required to explore possible long-term
consequences, dose-dependent variations, and underlying mechanisms of action.